The "Protect the Wings" Evolution in EA FC 26 has become a popular tactical choice among players who prefer a defensive yet counter-attacking style of play. The concept behind this evolution is to safeguard the wide areas of the pitch, ensuring that full-backs and wingers can effectively track back while maintaining offensive threat. The role of wide players in this setup is crucial, as it demands a blend of solid defensive skills, pace, and offensive contribution. In this article, we'll explore the best players to use for the "Protect the Wings" Evolution in FC 26 Coins and how to maximize their potential.

Understanding the "Protect the Wings" Evolution

In EA FC 26, the "Protect the Wings" Evolution is a tactical setup designed to offer more security on the flanks while still supporting attacking opportunities. This evolution focuses on full-backs and wingers who are both defensively aware and capable of pushing forward. The primary objective is to create a well-balanced setup where wide players can assist defensively but also offer pace and width in attack.

For this evolution to work effectively, players need to be versatile. Full-backs need to be able to deal with fast, tricky wingers while also contributing to offensive transitions. Meanwhile, wingers need to be more than just pace machines; they must be able to track back and defend when needed.

Key Attributes for "Protect the Wings" Players

Before diving into the list of top players, let's quickly review the essential attributes for those who excel in the "Protect the Wings" Evolution:

Defensive Awareness: Full-backs and wingers must have solid positioning and the ability to track back effectively. Attributes like Defensive Awareness, Interceptions, and Standing Tackle are crucial.

Pace: Speed is essential for both full-backs and wingers in a "Protect the Wings" setup. The ability to transition quickly from defense to attack makes pace a non-negotiable stat.

Stamina: Wide players will need high stamina to cover large areas of the pitch, both defensively and offensively, without dropping their performance.

Crossing and Dribbling: While defensive work is essential, the ability to deliver dangerous crosses and make effective dribbles to break down opposition defenses is also important.

Work Rate: A high work rate—especially in defensive duties—is vital for both full-backs and wingers in this tactical setup. Players with high Defensive and Attacking Work Rates are ideal.

Best Full-Backs for the "Protect the Wings" Evolution

Achraf Hakimi (Paris Saint-Germain)

Pace: 93

Defensive Awareness: 83

Crossing: 80

Hakimi is one of the most complete right-backs in EA FC 26 and excels in the "Protect the Wings" evolution. His pace is a huge asset when transitioning from defense to attack, and his ability to read the game allows him to quickly recover defensively. He also boasts an excellent crossing ability, making him a dangerous outlet in attack.

João Cancelo (Bayern Munich)

Pace: 85

Defensive Awareness: 82

Dribbling: 85

Cancelo is incredibly versatile, offering both defensive reliability and an attacking edge. His dribbling and passing skills enable him to progress the ball upfield with ease, and his defensive positioning ensures that he is always in the right place at the right time. His ability to operate as both a full-back and a wing-back in this evolution makes him an essential pick.

Andrew Robertson (Liverpool)

Pace: 85

Defensive Awareness: 82

Crossing: 86

Robertson is an elite left-back with excellent crossing ability. His work rate ensures he is a constant presence both in defense and in attack. While not as pacey as some, his positioning, stamina, and intelligence on the ball make him one of the best defensive options for the "Protect the Wings" Evolution.

Trent Alexander-Arnold (Liverpool)

Pace: 82

Defensive Awareness: 79

Crossing: 89

Trent's incredible passing range and crossing ability make him a standout right-back in EA FC 26. Although his defensive stats aren't as high as some of his counterparts, his exceptional work rate and vision allow him to contribute defensively while also being a key figure in attack, particularly in the final third.

Best Wingers for the "Protect the Wings" Evolution

Kylian Mbappé (Paris Saint-Germain)

Pace: 97

Dribbling: 91

Stamina: 87

Mbappé is undoubtedly one of the best wingers in EA FC 26. His blistering pace and dribbling ability make him a nightmare for opposing full-backs. While he's known for his attacking prowess, his high stamina and defensive awareness make him effective when tracking back. Mbappé's balance of offense and defense makes him a prime candidate for the "Protect the Wings" Evolution.

Son Heung-min (Tottenham Hotspur)

Pace: 89

Dribbling: 87

Defensive Awareness: 73

Son is a balanced winger who can contribute both defensively and offensively. His pace and dribbling skills make him a constant threat on the counter-attack, while his stamina allows him to buy Fut 26 Coins cover significant ground both defensively and offensively. His work rate is one of the best in the game, making him an ideal fit for this evolution.